Whether from the past or the present, one should be one’s true self and live according to the truth one has seen and is experiencing now. This does not mean trying to convince anyone, but simply being what we are within.
Of course, what needs to be avoided is the old type of discussions since they become anyways impossible as the consciousness shifts. The best is to use these occasions to practice inner equanimity and leave the others free to be themselves. Slowly, many or most associations will automatically drop off when they don’t find the old response.
An equanimity full of goodwill and kindness is, in general, the best response. This does not mean becoming indifferent to others, especially those who were once friends. Nor is it good to have any sense of superiority. In fact, it is best not to judge whether someone is spiritual or not. What is more important is the quality of the consciousness. Some people are outwardly spiritual, at least they profess so to be, following a path, perhaps even the same path as yours. But in terms of their consciousness, they may be very crude, for a number of reasons. There are others who may be more Sattwic and following some kind of idealism, even though they have not taken to the spiritual life. The Divine dwells in both extremes and while it is natural that one does not feel close with certain natures, yet there is no need to judge anyone, even when we do not feel the need to respond.
In general, however, it is good to remember that every exchange through WhatsApp or personal meetings and even handshakes leads to a certain inner contamination and even opens the doors to certain vibrations that one wants to get rid of. Hence, close interchanges and exchanges of pleasantries do open oneself to the risk of contagion of vibrations. Hence, while a general goodwill and kindness against a background of equanimity is the best way, one should be careful about opening the door and or letting in too much of all kinds of people with whom one might be interacting. Neither shutting off with indifference nor becoming pally with the messages, but maintaining a quiet inner space to nurture one’s spiritual life within, is the right balance to be found. It comes with practice.
Affectionately,
Alok Da
